Voucher Program

From its founding days in 1974, The Closet has always had a policy that if someone couldn’t afford to shop at the store they could bring a referral or chit from a local social services organization and select items for free, a practice that carries over in the current voucher program.

Today The Closet partners with local government and community-based organizations to help people in need in the community. The clothing voucher allows people to shop twice a year for up to $50(adults)/$25(children) worth of clothing, shoes, and essential household items such as sheets, blankets, cookware, and dishes. Since 2011, The Closet has distributed more than $400,000 in clothing and necessities to voucher recipients.

Who is Eligible for a Voucher?

All government and private social service organizations, member congregations, and schools are eligible to request voucher assistance. Referring agents should contact The Closet via phone or email for an official referral form. The Closet Voucher program is entirely free, there is absolutely no charge to any of the participants. Our only request is that the vouchers be distributed to clients who have the greatest need and only one voucher per person every six months. (Regardless of how many organizations refer a client, the client will be able to take advantage of only one referral.)

How are Vouchers Redeemed?

Vouchers may be redeemed during hours that the store is open for shopping. Recipients must check in with the voucher desk before they begin to shop and must provide a valid photo ID to the voucher desk employee. Once the recipient in finished shopping, the individual returns to the voucher desk to check out. Please note that appropriate clothing must be purchased based on the age and sex of the voucher holder individuals referred in the voucher. For more information on our Voucher program contact The Closet at 703-437-7652.